KAKAMEGA, Kenya — William Ruto on Sunday evening arrived in Kakamega County to begin a five-day development tour across counties in Western Kenya, starting with an inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation and expansion of the Kakamega Airstrip.
The President said the project is part of the government’s broader infrastructure plan aimed at strengthening regional air connectivity, opening up Western Kenya to trade, investment and tourism.
During the visit, Ruto inspected the progress of works at the facility, which include rehabilitation of the runway as well as upgrades to the taxiways and apron to accommodate more aircraft and improve safety standards.
The project is expected to revive commercial flight operations that had stalled due to the deteriorating condition of the runway.
The national government has previously allocated about Sh400 million toward the construction and completion of the airstrip, which is seen as a key economic gateway for the region.
Once operational, the facility will ease travel between Kakamega and major cities such as Nairobi while attracting investors and boosting business activity.
Arrived in Kakamega County this evening to kick off a five-day development tour across the counties of Western Kenya.Inspected the ongoing rehabilitation and expansion works at Kakamega Airstrip, a key project that will strengthen regional air connectivity and support trade and
Authorities say the upgrade will be carried out in phases, including expansion of the runway from approximately 1.2 kilometres to 1.4 kilometres, alongside construction of supporting infrastructure such as perimeter security and improved ground facilities.
Speaking during the inspection, President Ruto said improving air infrastructure is critical for unlocking the economic potential of Western Kenya, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, tourism and trade.
“We are investing in strategic infrastructure that will connect our regions and expand economic opportunities for our people,” he said.
The Kakamega visit marks the start of a wider development tour that will take the President across several counties in the Western region, where he is expected to inspect ongoing projects, commission new ones and engage local leaders and residents on the government’s development agenda.
The tour is part of the administration’s push to accelerate infrastructure projects and improve connectivity across regions as Kenya seeks to strengthen economic growth and regional integration.
